Your child will undergo the remarkable transformation from infant to toddler at the age of one. Everything is new and exciting at this stage when your child can get around independently and explore cause-and-effect activities like opening and shutting doors.

Here are some typical milestones you may see in your 12 - 18 month old:

Language & Cognitive Development

Points to their eyes, ears and nose

Understands simple sentences and instructions

Vocabulary grows rapidly from a few words to dozens

Can hold a book and identify objects in the book with the Correct Starting Sound

Recognizes and enjoys familiar sequences of events such as dinner, bathtime, storytime and bedtime

Physical & Motor Development

Walks independently but with lots of tripping and falling

Climbs stairs

Eats with a spoon or fork

Fills and empties containers, or stacks nested pots or bowls

Plays with toys that can be pushed or pulled while walking

Responds to music by bouncing or dancing

Social & Emotional Development

Imitates adult actions such as talking on the phone, stirring a pot or watering flowers

Recognizes him or herself in the mirror

Plays interactive games

Experiences separation and stranger anxiety

Remember your child is a wonderful, unique individual and may not exhibit every one of these milestones. A wide range of behaviors is considered normal and some children will demonstrate certain abilities earlier or later than this schedule. Should you have any concerns about your child’s progress, please ask your pediatrician or family physician.